1. What is a kW to BTU Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts power measurements from kilowatts (kW) to British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h).

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals, engineers, and energy specialists convert between these common power units used in heating and cooling systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q_{btu} \) — BTU per hour output
• \( P_{kW} \) — Power input in kilowatts
• 3412 — Conversion factor (BTU/h per kW)

Explanation: 1 kW is equivalent to 3412 BTU/h, as 1 BTU is approximately 0.000293071 kW.

3. Importance of kW to BTU Conversion

Details: This conversion is essential when comparing or specifying heating/cooling equipment that uses different measurement systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the power value in kilowatts (kW) and the calculator will instantly provide the equivalent in BTU/h.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 3412?
A: This comes from the definition of BTU and kW - 1 kW equals 3412.142 BTU/h based on the International Table BTU definition.

Q2: Is this calculator accurate for all applications?
A: Yes, the conversion is mathematically exact, though real-world equipment efficiency may vary.

Q3: Can I convert BTU back to kW?
A: Yes, simply divide BTU/h by 3412 to get kW.

Q4: What's a typical kW to BTU conversion for air conditioners?
A: A 3.5 kW AC unit would be about 12,000 BTU/h (commonly called a "1-ton" unit).

Q5: Does this work for both heating and cooling systems?
A: Yes, the conversion applies equally to heating and cooling power measurements.